Portable Light Molded USB Connector and Flexible Stalk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable portable lights often require multiple charging devices and cables due to varying electrical capacities, leading to complexity and inconvenience, and lack a simple, cost-effective solution for direct USB charging and a flexible light direction.
Innovation Solution
A portable light with a molded housing featuring a USB connector integrally molded into the housing, a rechargeable battery, and a flexible stalk for directing the light, allowing direct USB charging and reducing complexity through a single electronic circuit board that provides both the USB connector and light control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple charging devices and cables are used for different electrical capacities, then charging compatibility is improved, but device complexity and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal USB charging interface that can accept standard USB connectors and adapt to different electrical capacities through a single multifunctional charging port. The housing includes a USB connector tray that accommodates various USB connector types, allowing the flashlight to be charged from multiple sources (computers, USB power banks, wall adapters) without requiring separate charging devices for different capacities.
2Device complexity
If a standardized USB connector is used, then the number of cables needed is reduced, but charging power capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic charging system where the USB connector tray can accommodate different USB connector types (standard USB, micro USB, etc.) and the charging circuit dynamically adjusts to handle various power capacities. The housing structure allows the USB connector to be positioned at different locations, enabling flexible connection to different power sources with varying power output capabilities.
3Device complexity
If the light head is fixed to the body, then structural simplicity is improved, but light direction control is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a flexible stalk connecting the light head to the body, allowing the light head to be positioned at various angles and directions. The stalk can be bent and adjusted to direct light where needed while maintaining a simple overall structure. This dynamic positioning capability enables users to control light direction without adding complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution simplifies charging by eliminating the need for multiple charging devices and cables, reduces costs, and provides a versatile light direction with the flexible stalk, enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a first light emitting diode operable in a first operating state for emitting illumination light and operable in a different operating state for providing an indication of charging
Data Source
AI summary
A portable light may comprise a light housing having a USB connector tray integrally molded therewith; a light source; a switch for selectively actuating the light source; and a circuit board in the light housing providing electrical contacts of a USB connector, whereby the connector tray and the electrical contacts cooperate to define a USB connector. The light source may operate in a mode wherein it provides illumination light and in a different mode wherein it provides an indication of charging.